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Electrostatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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electrostatic

[ɪˌlɛktrəʊˈstætɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physics, electricity

Electrostatic refers to the branch of physics that deals with the forces and fields created by static electric charges. It describes the interactions between electric charges at rest. These interactions are governed by Coulomb's law, which quantifies the amount of force between two charged objects based on their charges and the distance between them.

Synonyms

static charge, static electric.

Examples of usage

  • Electrostatic charges build up on plastic surfaces.
  • The electrostatic force between two charged particles attracts them.
  • Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic equipment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Electrostatic forces can be both attractive and repulsive, depending on the charge of the objects involved – like how two balloons can either stick together or push apart.
  • This type of electricity plays a crucial role in everyday phenomena such as lightning, where charge builds up in clouds and is released in massive bursts.
  • Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects, which can cause damage to electronics.

Pop Culture

  • Static electricity is often humorously depicted in cartoons where characters shock each other after touching a charged object.
  • In movies, scenes involving electric shocks or sparks often exaggerate electrostatic effects to add excitement or humor.

Applications

  • Electrostatic paint spraying uses charged particles to coat objects evenly, reducing waste and improving the finish.
  • This principle is also applied in photocopiers and laser printers, where charged rollers attract ink particles to paper.

Psychology

  • The surprising shocks felt from static electricity can lead to laughter and surprise, showcasing how individuals react unpredictably to unexpected stimuli.
  • Research indicates that experiencing static shocks can influence a person's mood temporarily, showing a link between physical sensations and emotional responses.

Origin of 'electrostatic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from two Greek roots: 'electro' meaning 'amber' (which was one of the first materials discovered to create static electricity) and 'static' meaning 'not moving'.
  • It was in the 18th century when scientists began officially studying the effects of this invisible force and how it interacted with materials.

The word 'electrostatic' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'electro-', which comes from the Greek word 'ēlektron', meaning 'amber', a substance that produces static electricity when rubbed, and 'static', from the Greek word 'statikos', meaning 'causing to stand, having weight'. The concept of electrostatic phenomena dates back to ancient times, but significant scientific progress in understanding these forces began in the 17th century. Pioneering works by scientists such as William Gilbert and Charles-Augustin de Coulomb laid the groundwork for electrostatics as a formal discipline. The term gained popularity in the scientific lexicon during the 19th century alongside advancements in physics and electrical engineering.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,242, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.